Welcome to the Junior League of Charlottesville (JLC)!

It is my honor to serve as President as we enter our 91st year of empowering women in Charlottesville and the surrounding areas through mentorship, service, and training.

Originally founded as the University League in 1932, the JLC’s roots were established by a group of dedicated women who were interested in contributing to the larger community and who wanted to make a difference with a passion for volunteerism. Since joining the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) in 1981, the JLC has evolved over time to adapt to changing community needs while remaining committed to its Mission.

As we enter the 2023–24 League year, we have adapted a new Mission: The League is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. By embracing this identity, we strive to impact women in Charlottesville and the surrounding areas through mentorship, service, and training that align to our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging:

• Mentorship: Beginning in 2014, the JLC has had the honor of working with the Boys & Girls Club. Through this Community Partners program, our Members mentor a group of girls ages 9-11 years old, helping build self-esteem and providing positive role models. Members also develop and assist with program activities centered around developing cooking skills.
• Service: Since the League’s founding, our Members have made impactful changes in the community through their collective talents, strengths, and voices. Over the course of the League’s history, our Members have organized and staffed the Senior Center, which continues to serve the community and aging adults today; established a children’s museum at the Primary Care Center of UVA hospital; and more. Today, we strive to collaborate with other organizations to advance the reach of our Mission into the Charlottesville community.
• Training: Leadership development workshops, seminars, and training programs are offered to Members to empower everyone with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in leadership roles, not only within JLC but stewards within the Charlottesville area.

As an organization of women committed to the support and facilitation of lasting and positive change in our community, we are constantly evaluating how we can best partner with others in the community for the better. In 2024, the JLC will launch Touch a Truck to provide a unique opportunity for children to explore vehicles of all types — all in one place. Children will be allowed to touch their favorite vehicles, get behind the wheel, and meet the people who help build, protect, and serve Charlottesville. As a community, we are better together.

I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and hope that you will join me to advance our Mission and Vision.